UGC's New Regulations Open Doors for Non-Academic Professionals as Vice-Chancellors
On Monday, the University Grants Commission (UGC) released its 2025 draft regulations that open the doors for non-academics to become Vice-Chancellors of universities.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan while releasing the document said, "by promoting flexibility, inclusivity and recognising diverse talents, we are paving the way for a dynamic academic future for India."
Subject flexibility
The regulations propose some major changes, including the restriction that candidates be allowed to teach only one subject, in which they have the highest academic degree. However, if candidates want to teach a subject, other than the one in which they scored their highest academic degree, they will have to clear the National Eligibility Test (NET) for that particular subject as well.
Vice-Chancellor eligibility
In a move to broaden the eligibility criteria for Vice-Chancellors, the draft rules have broad-based the qualifications needed to be considered for the position. Prominent experts with a track record of academic accomplishments from industries, public administration, and policymaking are now eligible to apply.
Inclusivity
The reforms also address inclusivity by including relaxations for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Persons with Disabilities (PwD), alongside the pre-existing provisions for SC, ST and OBC candidates. The draft also promotes the use of regional languages in academia.
Recruitment
The draft modernises the recruitment and promotion framework for teachers and academic staff in higher education institutions. Teaching candidates will be evaluated on their practical teaching and research aptitude.
Librarians and Physical Education Directors
Updated requirements for roles like physical education directors and librarians are also included in the draft. Accomplishments in indigenous sports and public health projects will serve as important criteria for physical education directors; and librarians will now be judged on their contributions to library digitisation and community engagement.
Industry professors
Industry experts can now join higher education institutes for teaching and research outside the sanctioned posts.
Innovation
By adding clauses that acknowledge professional accomplishments including creative teaching strategies, the production of digital content, and contributions to research funding, the draft further broadens the definition of credentials.
Compliance measures
Higher education institutes that violate the regulations will be charged with penalties like exclusion from UGC schemes and benefits.
Career advancement scheme
To ensure equity in professional growth, faculty promotions under the career advancement scheme will now take into consideration the leave for childbirth, childcare, or study.